Calling all Grade 9 Parents: Grading Policy Q&A Set for Oct. 24

The Office of Curriculum and Instructional Programs will have a virtual parent/caregiver Q&A session on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 6:00 p.m. to share information and answer any questions on the recently approved End of Course exams for ninth grade students.

Beginning with the 2023-2024 school year for ninth grade students (Class of 2027), the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) End of Course (EOC) exams for science and government will count as 20 percent of the student’s final grade in the respective high school level biology and government courses (NSL). 

The 20 percent will be calculated into the second semester or the semester B course final grade. Students are not required to pass the EOC exams to graduate but must pass the course to earn the course credit needed for graduation. The requirement does not apply to students currently in any other grades or students taking AP or IB level biology and government courses.

This change is due to changes to the state’s policy. On July 25, 2023, the Maryland State Board of Education adopted changes to the Code of Maryland Regulations 13a.03.02 Graduation Requirements for High Schools in Maryland. 

This Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document provides answers to questions related to the implementation of the MCAP End of Course exams for high school. This document will be updated periodically, and the most current version will be available on the Maryland public school website.

Virtual Q&A Session

Date: Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m.

Meeting Link: 

http://mcpsmd.zoom.us/j/87155024563?pwd=akRNU1VJQlFrZTZaakJxRE5JWU1KQT09